With the new 24-team playoff format adapted for this season, the Chicago Blackhawks and Montreal Canadiens now find themselves back in the playoffs.
By Lyle Richardson, Featurd
The NHL's recent announcement of its intent to resume play with a 24-team playoff tournament generated considerable buzz among hockey fans.
Some questioned the rationale behind an expanded tournament rather than going straight into the 16-team playoff format. Most seemed fine with allowing teams on the playoff bubble before the schedule was paused to have the opportunity to play their way into contention.
However, some heaped scorn upon the decision to include the Chicago Blackhawks and Montreal Canadiens, whose playoff hopes were all but dashed before the schedule was halted.